Mud baths, steaming fumaroles and the climb to the Gran Cratere
Vulcano, the Aeolian island closest to Sicily, gave its name to all the volcanoes of the world: the ancients believed it was the forge of Vulcan, god of fire. It is reached in a few minutes by hydrofoil from Lipari.
The most famous experience is the Laghetto di Fanghi, a pool of warm sulphurous mud near the port, used for therapeutic baths, next to a stretch of sea where volcanic gases bubble up from the seabed like a natural jacuzzi. The classic walk is the climb to the Gran Cratere (Fossa di Vulcano), about an hour from the village, among steaming yellow fumaroles, with a view over all the Aeolian Islands. The beach of Sabbie Nere, with black volcanic sand, is one of the most beautiful in the archipelago.
Tip: access to the crater and the mud pool depends on volcanic activity and gas levels, so check the local ordinances before going; the sulphur smell lingers on clothes and silver jewellery.
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